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Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

Calculate your debt-to-income ratio — the single number lenders use to decide whether you qualify for a mortgage, car loan, or personal loan, and at what rate.

Your monthly numbers

Use gross (pre-tax) monthly income and the minimum payments lenders see.

Before taxes.

Include taxes and insurance if you own.

Cards, car, student, personal loans.

Your debt-to-income ratio

Back-end DTI (what lenders use)

36.7%

Manageable. 43% is the usual ceiling for a qualified mortgage.

Front-end (housing only)

25.0%

Total monthly debt

$2,200

Income left after debt

$3,800

Lenders weigh the back-end ratio most. Conventional mortgages generally cap it near 43%–50% depending on the loan and compensating factors. Lowering debt or raising income improves it.

Why lenders care about DTI

Your debt-to-income ratio is the share of your gross monthly income already committed to debt payments. It tells a lender how much room you have to take on a new payment — which is why it's often the deciding factor in a mortgage or loan approval, alongside your credit score.

How it's calculated

Add up your monthly debt payments, divide by your gross monthly income, and multiply by 100. If you pay $2,200 toward housing and debts on $6,000 of income, your back-end DTI is about 37%.

Improving your number before you apply

The fastest way to lower DTI is to eliminate a payment entirely — which makes the debt payoff calculator and consolidation calculator useful next stops. If you're buying a home, see how your DTI shapes your budget with the home affordability calculator.

Related calculators

Home Affordability CalculatorThe home price your income and debts can support.Debt Consolidation CalculatorCompare your current debts to a single consolidation loan.50/30/20 Budget CalculatorThe simplest budget rule: 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings and debt.Debt Payoff CalculatorSnowball vs. avalanche across all your debts, with your debt-free date and interest saved.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good debt-to-income ratio?
Generally, 36% or below is considered healthy. Many mortgage programs allow up to 43%, and some up to 50% with strong credit and reserves. Below 36% gives you the most options and the best rates.
What is the difference between front-end and back-end DTI?
Front-end DTI counts only your housing payment against income. Back-end DTI counts all monthly debt — housing plus cards, car, student, and personal loans. Lenders focus on the back-end number.
Does DTI use gross or net income?
Gross income — your pay before taxes and deductions. That’s the figure lenders use, so this calculator does too.
How can I lower my DTI?
Pay down or pay off debts (especially those with high minimum payments), avoid taking on new loans before applying, and increase your income. Even eliminating one small loan can move the ratio meaningfully.